Senator Collins' Statement On Announcement Of Iran Nuclear Agreement
Click HERE to view footage of Senator Collins’ statement
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Susan Collins released the following statement after the announcement that a nuclear agreement with Iran has been reached:
"The agreement with Iran announced by the President has serious ramifications not only for the stability of the region but also for our national security as well. Congress will begin a careful analysis of the details of the agreement, and it is important that we reach the right decision. In that regard, it was disappointing that the President threatened to veto any legislation disapproving of the agreement before his Administration has even met with Congress to explain its provisions.
“A verifiable diplomatic agreement that prevents Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons and dismantles its nuclear infrastructure is the desired outcome; however, it is far from clear that this agreement will accomplish those goals.
"First, the agreement appears only to delay, rather than dismantle, Iran’s capabilities toward becoming a nuclear-armed state.
"Second, it does not appear to allow international inspectors unfettered access to ensure that the Iranians are not developing a covert nuclear program in violation of the agreement. Such ‘any time, anywhere’ inspections by international inspectors are essential to ensure compliance.
"Third, existing UN Security Council resolutions require Iran to fully address questions about the possible military dimensions of its nuclear program. These questions appear to remain unresolved, as they have been for many years.
"Fourth, I am concerned about the financial windfall that Iran will receive as a result of the easing of the sanctions. Given Iran’s involvement in Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen, Tehran is likely to use this money to fuel sectarian conflicts in the region.
"Finally, after a certain period of time, the agreement would lift the Iranian arms embargo and ballistic missile restrictions, thus allowing countries such as Russia to supply the Iranians with stronger military capabilities. I am very concerned about these provisions and will be seeking answers from the Administration on why it would include provisions that would strengthen Iran’s military and lead to weapons proliferation.
"While I will withhold judgment until more details are provided by the Administration, the answers to these and other serious concerns will determine whether or not I can support the final agreement."
Click HERE to view video footage of Senator Collins’ statement
